George J. Llopis, III

OZARK…Mr. George J. Llopis, III (Sergeant Major, United States Army, Retired), a resident of Ozark, passed away peacefully Saturday afternoon, April 18, 2026, at his home surrounded by family and friends after a bravely fought battle with cancer. He was 78.

Celebration of Life Services will be held at 12:00 Noon, Wednesday, April 22, 2026, in the Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend Brian Llopis officiating. The family will receive friends from 11:00 until 12:00 Noon Wednesday at the funeral home. Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home of Ozark is in charge of arrangements.

Mr. George Joseph Llopis III was born on January 21,1948, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to George J. Llopis Jr. and Shirley Shelby Llopis. He was the eldest of twelve children.

George was raised in the Catholic faith and remained grounded in his values throughout his life. He graduated from George Washington Carver Senior High School before being drafted into the United States Army. He later earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Troy State University.

In his young adult years, George developed a love for sports that began with a strong interest in deer hunting and fishing. Whatever he set his mind to, he gave his very best, a trait that remained with him throughout his life.

George proudly served his country in the United States Army, including service in Vietnam. He dedicated over 20 years of honorable military service, retiring with the rank of Sergeant Major. His commitment to duty, leadership, and country was a defining part of his life.

On July 18, 1970, George married the love of his life, Maryian Elaine Llopis. Together they built a life in Ozark, Alabama, and were blessed with one child, Christyl Llopis Champion.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 47 years, Maryian Elaine Llopis; his father George J. Llopis Jr.; his mother, Shirly Shelby Llopis; his brother, Gregory Llopis Sr.; and one sister, Janice Llopis.

George had a passion for golf and was an accomplished player in his community. His achievement highlights include:

• 1st place Mercedes Trophy 2005

• 1st place Red & White Father’s Day Scramble 2011

• 1st place Rev. Dr. A.W. Watkins 5th Annual Memorial Golf Classic 2011

• 1st place 2nd Annual Red & White Golf Scramble 2012

• 1st place Gross Super Senior, Silver Wings Golf Course, Fort Rucker, Alabama 2022

• 1st place 4th Annual Rev. Dr. A.W. Watkins Memorial Golf Tournament

• Senior Club Champion, Silver Wings Gold Course, Fort Rucker Alabama

• Callaway Hole-in-One, Hole #3, 155 yards, Silver Wings Gold Course (September 5, 2023)

George will be remembered for his strength, discipline, love for family, and passion for the game of golf. His legacy of service, dedication, and perseverance will live on in all who knew and loved him.

Surviving relatives include his daughter, Christyl Llopis Champion (Corey Sr.), Rock Hill, South Carolina, grandchildren, Kyndall Champion and Corey Champion Jr., Rock Hill, South Carolina; and Tatyana Bullard (Jared), Houston, Texas; sisters, Rosalind Major, Denise Warning (Donald), Joan Baptiste, and Donna Llopis; brothers, Robert Llopis (Lorraine), Brian Llopis (Priscilla), Terry Llopis, Kerry Llopis (Linda), and Roul Llopis (Wanda), all of New Orleans, Louisiana; special friend, Yolanda Sprague, Ozark; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends who will cherish his memory.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”- Matthew 25:23